Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North in the Senate, has accused state authorities of manipulating the upcoming All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election. He claims that the panel tasked with overseeing the primaries has been taken captive by agents loyal to former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.
In a statement released by his campaign director, Ekene Kerry, Nwoko asserted that government officials are working to block his re-election bid. He specifically pointed to Okowa, who recently joined the APC from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as the mastermind behind the alleged scheme.
The campaign organization highlighted that state government appointees are reportedly serving as returning officers at ward and local government levels, manipulating results to favor Okowa. They also warned that supporters of Nwoko face threats of violence, but vowed not to be intimidated.
Nwoko’s team recalled that during the 2023 elections, Okowa lost Delta State to the Labour Party while Nwoko won his senatorial race. They argued that the people have already rejected Okowa and will do so again. The campaign called on the APC national leadership and security agencies to intervene and ensure a free and fair primary.
“Our supporters must not be cowed. They should come out peacefully and vote for Senator Ned Nwoko,” the statement concluded.